The Very British Holiday

What a year it has been for travel. Bad weather in February caused road and rail chaos and many airports closed or suffered serious delays and cancellations.

Just as the weather started to improve and spring was in the air, a huge volcano on the small island country of Iceland decided to erupt, spouting millions of cubic meters of dangerous gases and ash into the sky. This unexpected and unplanned for natural phenomenon virtually brought European airspace to a complete halt for several days and just as everyone thought the ash had dissipated it returned with a vengeance and caused yet more headache and frustration.

Then it was the turn for human error; British Airways decided to strike affecting May half-term holidays and resulting in many angry customers and a loss of loyalty. BA have continued to strike throughout the year over pay and benefits reductions and it looks as though the struggle is not yet over and more strike could go ahead in 2011.

This winter is wrought with havoc too. Major – for the UK at least – snowfall has seen almost every airport in the UK close, the AA called out to around twice the number of call outs and train delays of several hours. The bad weather has come in waves, but sadly one of the worst is just in time for Christmas, meaning many families will not be reunited this yuletide.

But how will this affect travel in 2011? The British public seems to be very resilient. So, it is likely therefore, that is won’t have too much of an affect. People will still choose to fly to Europe instead of driving or getting the train, and winter sun holidays will continue to grow in popularity, maybe even more so as more people try to escape the British winter chill.

It will mean though, that the public will be extra careful who they book their holidays with. Consumers will make doubly sure to check for ATOL bonding and ABTA membership.

Insurance will become essential. Many people in 2010 have felt the financial pinch so opted out of insurance, to their peril it now seems. In 2011, people will want to protect themselves against any eventuality. Despite volcanoes and airstrikes, British holidays will still go ahead.

Flight Centre offers cheap flights to hundreds of destinations across the globe and importantly it offers 24/7 emergency assistance and is a part of ATOL, safeguarding you and your holiday.